Read Story - New Brunswick Energy Institute

The New Brunswick Energy Institute (NBEI)
The New Brunswick Energy Institute (NBEI)
Vision: to provide objective science-based information to help New Brunswickers evaluate possible
impacts from the potential development of energy resources and infrastructure in New Brunswick
Mandate: to commission and oversee scientific research in New Brunswick, peer review relevant
research from other jurisdictions, and provide access to the information for New Brunswickers in an
easily understood format
What has NBEI accomplished for New Brunswick?
The Institute has identified and supported the following research needs:
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A baseline groundwater study on approximately 500 domestic wells in two regions with the
greatest potential for unconventional natural gas production (ending 2016).
A baseline study on stream water quality in areas with the greatest potential for unconventional
natural gas production (ending 2016).
A monitoring system that is collecting baseline information on seismic activity in southeastern
New Brunswick (in partnership with the Geological Survey of Canada).
A review of the science on balancing the use of surface water for development with flow needs
for fish and other aquatic life (for release April 2015).
The Institute has organized and hosted the following events:
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Two meetings with Elders from most First Nation’s communities (all were invited) in New
Brunswick on unconventional gas resources and development and research needs.
Public presentations on technology and potential impacts of energy development on the
environment and human health.
Meetings with Roundtable Members (community representatives) with expert presentations on
a wide range of energy topics and discussions about future research needs for New Brunswick.
What does NBEI have planned for New Brunswick?
Through consultations, we have identified the following research and information needs which we
intend to pursue:
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The potential social impacts of unconventional oil and gas production (the“Boomtown”
syndrome) in the province.
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Energy storage options for the province that would allow the expansion of renewable energy
production through wind and solar power.
Continued discussions with First Nations elders and communities about the impacts of energy
projects, and Aboriginal concerns and research needs.
Knowledge on the treatment and disposal of wastewater from natural gas development – what
are the options in New Brunswick?
Understanding the main energy sources available in the province and their costs, environmental
impacts (including land use and climate change gas emissions), contributions to the NB
economy, etc.
Continuing to provide the public with credible, recent energy science appropriate to NB through
the website and through an energy “hotline”.
A series of ‘semi-formal’ community meetings around the Province, whereby people can discuss
energy issues in a productive manner.
Collaborations with other provincial organizations and institutions in the region to share
information and to establish a “centre of energy excellence”.
Hosting a ‘Symposium’ in late 2015 addressing technical, social and environmental issues related
to potential hydrocarbon development in the Maritimes. The NBEI Research Fellows and other
experts will be invited for these presentations and discussions and there will be small working
groups.